The Oregon Ducks were looking to add running backs in the Class of 2013. The graduation of Kenjon Barner left just two scholarship ball carriers on their roster with sophomore Byron Marshall and junior De'Anthony Thomas. Former walk-on junior Ayele Forde was awarded a full-ride following the season bringing the total number to three.

The Ducks scored early with Aloha star Thomas Tyner's commitment followed by a verbal commitment from all-purpose back Dontre Wilson, who subsequently became the only recruit to decommit from Oregon following the departure of Chip Kelly to the NFL.

Needing more numbers to bolster the depth chart, head coach Mark Helfrich and offensive coordinator Scott Frost were looking for another running back to join Tyner and offered Kani Benoit during his visit on the weekend prior to sighing day. Duck Sports Authority spoke with both coaches about the recruitment of the Phoenix, Arizona running back.